Ikon, Ärkeängeln Gabriel Icon, the Angel Gabriel

Date
1500 - 1600
Technique
Egg tempera on gesso, panel, brass
Dimensions
32 x 26 cm
Acquisition
Purchase 1988-04-30
Inventory number
MMK 5828
© Malmö Konstmuseum

Description
This icon image represents the archangel Gabriel, who is found in all the Abrahamic religions (Christianity, Judaism, and Islam). Gabriel is considered in Christianity to be the foremost of the archangels and appears as God's messenger in several places in the Bible. Gabriel is often depicted in annunciation scenes, as it was him who, in the Gospel of Luke, was sent to Mary to tell her that she will give birth to a son. Many icon images are created by artists unknown to us today. Icon painting has traditionally been done in monasteries, where the painting itself is a sacred act with rules and procedures. Icon-making has been perceived as a sacred mission or act where the motifs have been the main focus, and they have usually been reproduced over and over again. Therefore, it has not been important to sign the individual works. Especially up to the 16th century, many icons are unsigned and most of the artists are unknown, but the practice still occurs today.
Exhibitions
Från kungaporträtt till selfies / From Royal Portraits to Selfies, emuseumplus, 12.11.2021 Samlingen - The Collection, Malmö Konstmuseum, våning 2, 12.06.2021